A reduction in cancer and cardiovascular mortality risk is associated with increased dietary ingestion of cereal fiber.

The objective of this meta-analysis was to examine the relationship between dietary intake of cereal fiber and the likelihood of dying from cancer, cardiovascular ailments, inflammatory diseases, and other causes. Data extracted from 14 studies were reviewed for this meta-analysis. 

Data analysis revealed that high consumption of cereal fiber slashed the odds of suffering from cancer and cardiovascular disease-related deaths. An 18% decrease in the risk of cardiovascular mortality was found in individuals who habitually ate generous portions of cereal fiber. The results of this study show that greater consumption of cereal fiber may improve an individual's chances of avoiding deaths resulting from cancer and cardiovascular disease.